Le Lagon

Considering the size of this complex – around 4750 square metres – the surprise is how easily it slips into the landscape. Le Lagon (lagoon),  an aqua and sports leisure complex, sits in the snowy heart of Tignes, high in the Savoie region of the western French Alps and which, at 2000 metres is one of France’s best, year-round ski resorts.

Foundations are up to 16 metres deep while the structure has to cope with internal/external temperature differences of up to 50 degrees Centigrade. Apart from the striking tepee-shaped entrance a nod to the surrounding mountain peaks the complex has a remarkably unobtrusive profile, blending into the landscape through judicious use of local stone and timber cladding together with sweeping walls of glass.

Type of Building: Public

Architect: Douat Harland et Associes (DHA)

Brand: Interpon D1036